Unveiling the World of Old Carter Whiskies

When it comes to high-quality American whiskies, few brands are as respected and revered as Old Carter Whiskies. This family-owned and operated brand has built a reputation for crafting exceptional small-batch whiskies that showcase the best of what American distilling has to offer.

Old Carter Whiskies was founded by Mark and Sherri Carter, a husband and wife team who bring a wealth of experience and passion to their craft. Mark is a fourth-generation distiller with over 25 years of experience in the industry, while Sherri is a wine industry veteran with a keen palate and a love for blending.

This blog post offers an in-depth exploration of the world of Old Carter Whiskies. We'll explore the different whiskies in their collection, share tasting notes, discuss the production process and distillery tours, offer gift recommendations, and even provide cocktail recipes featuring Old Carter Whiskies.

The Old Carter Whisky Collection

Old Carter Whiskey offers several collections of premium, small-batch whiskeys, each with a unique character and flavor profile.

Here are some of the different types of collections for Old Carter Whiskies:

Old Carter Straight Bourbon Whiskey Collection 

This collection features a range of small-batch, straight bourbon whiskeys aged 12 years.

Each bourbon in the collection has a unique flavor profile with caramel, vanilla, and oak notes. Examples of the Old Carter Straight Bourbon Whiskey Collection are:

• Old Carter Straight Bourbon batch 2

• Old Carter Straight Bourbon batch 7

Old Carter American Whiskey Collection 

This collection includes a range of small-batch American whiskeys made from a blend of corn, rye, and barley. The whiskeys are aged in charred oak barrels to develop a smooth and mellow flavor profile, with notes of butterscotch, toffee, and dark fruit.

Some examples of the Old Carter American Whiskey Collection are:

• Old Carter American Whiskey Batch 4
• Old Carter American Whiskey Batch 5

• Old Carter American Whiskey Batch 6 

Old Carter Straight Rye Whiskey Collection

This collection features a range of small-batch, straight rye whiskeys aged up to 6 years.

Some examples of the Old Carter Straight Rye Whiskey Collection are:

• Old Carter Straight Rye Whiskey Batch 10

 

• Old Carter Straight Rye Whiskey Batch 8 

 

• Old Carter Straight Rye Whiskey Batch 9 

Old Carter Blended Whiskey Collection 

This collection includes a range of small-batch blended whiskeys crafted using a combination of different whiskey types to create a complex and well-balanced flavor profile.

Examples of the Old Carter Blended Whiskey Collection are:

• Old Carter Straight Rye Whiskey Batch 5: 
• Old Carter Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch 6
• Old Carter American Whiskey Batch 8
• Old Carter American Whiskey Batch 9

Batch Strength Collection

This collection comprises cask-strength whiskeys bottled straight from the barrel without being watered down. It results in higher alcohol content and a more intense flavor profile. Some of the best examples from this collection include:

• Old Carter Batch Strength American Whiskey
• Old Carter Batch Strength Straight Bourbon
• Old Carter Batch Strength Rye

Limited Release Collection

The limited-release collection features unique, small-batch whiskeys that are only available for a limited time. These releases often showcase experimental blends or special aging techniques. Four examples from this collection include:

1. Old Carter The Great Debate: This limited edition release is a blend of bourbons from two states that were each aged for a different time. It has a complex flavor profile that includes notes of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak.
2. Old Carter Batch Strength American Whiskey: The Carters' 13th Release: This limited edition release blends bourbons and ryes aged between 11 and 15 years. The whiskey boasts a smooth and complex flavor profile featuring vanilla, oak, and dark fruit notes.
3. Old Carter The 2020 Vintage Series: This limited edition release features three different whiskies, each made from a blend of bourbons and ryes aged between 9 and 14 years. Each bottle is individually numbered and comes with a hand-written tasting note from the Carters.
4. Old Carter American Whiskey 13-Year-Old: This limited edition release is a blend of bourbons and ryes from various states, with each component aged for at least eight years. It has a smooth, balanced flavor with vanilla, caramel, and toasted oak notes.

Each of these whiskies has its unique character and flavor profile, but they all share a commitment to quality and craftsmanship evident in every sip.

Old Carter Whiskies Production Process

Understanding the production process of Old Carter Whiskies is crucial in appreciating the quality and craftsmanship that goes into each bottle.

From sourcing ingredients to bottling and labeling, every step implemented contributes to the distinct flavor profiles and characteristics of Old Carter Whiskies. 

Sourcing Ingredients

Old Carter Whiskies sources high-quality grains to ensure their whiskey's best flavor and aroma. They carefully select grains that meet their strict standards for quality and taste.

Old Carter Whiskies prioritizes local sourcing whenever possible. It supports local farmers and businesses and ensures that the grains are fresh and have not traveled long distances, which can affect their quality.

Old Carter Whiskies uses only non-GMO grains in their production process. It is better for the environment and ensures the whiskey is free from harmful additives.

 

Mashing and Fermentation

The grains are combined with water and heated to release their sugars during mashing. Old Carter Whiskies uses a unique combination of grains and water to create a perfect mash for their whiskey.

Old Carter Whiskies uses a specific combination of yeast strains to create the perfect fermentation process. They carefully monitor the temperature and duration of fermentation to ensure the desired flavor and aroma profiles.

Temperature control is crucial during fermentation as it can affect the flavor and aroma of the final product.

Old Carter Whiskies uses state-of-the-art equipment to monitor and control temperature during fermentation.

 

Distillation

Old Carter Whiskies uses a double-distillation process to ensure the highest quality whiskey. The first distillation produces a low-proof spirit, which is then distilled a second time to create a high-proof with a more concentrated flavor and aroma.

Copper pot stills are used during the distillation process, which helps to remove any impurities and create a smooth, clean taste.

The distillation process also involves making cuts, which separates the high-proof spirit into different sections based on their alcohol content.

Old Carter Whiskies carefully selects only the best sections to ensure the highest quality final product.

 

Barrel Aging

Old Carter Whiskies selects barrels from the highest quality wood, including American and French oak. They also carefully inspect each barrel to ensure it is free from defects.

Barrel aging is a crucial part of the Old Carter Whiskies production process, as it is where the whiskey develops its unique flavor and aroma. 

The barrels are charred to a specific level depending on the desired flavor profile of the whiskey. The whiskey is then aged for a particular length, ranging from a few years to over a decade. During this time, the whiskey interacts with the barrel's wood, absorbing flavors and aromas such as vanilla, caramel, and oak.

 

Blending

Once the whiskey has been aged to perfection, it is time to start the blending process.

The Old Carter Whiskies team carefully selects barrels from different batches that complement each other. Blending them creates a consistent and balanced flavor profile.

This process can take months or even years as the team strives to balance flavors and aromas perfectly.

Bottling and Labeling

Bottling and rebelling are the final stages of the process. Old Carter Whiskies uses a non-chill filtration process to ensure the whiskey retains its flavor and aroma.

The label design is also essential to the Old Carter Whiskies production process, reflecting the brand's commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

The label includes information such as the age, proof, and mash bill of the whiskey, as well as tasting notes and other details about the production process.

Each bottle goes through a thorough inspection to ensure that it meets Old Carter Whiskies' high standards for quality and consistency.

The production process is crucial to what makes Old Carter Whiskies stand out in a crowded market.

Old Carter Whiskies Distillery Tour

The Old Carter Whiskies Distillery is in Willett Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky.

Visitors can tour the Old Carter Whiskies Distillery to learn about the production process of making their award-winning whiskies.

During the tour, visitors will see the impressive distilling equipment and barrels used in the aging process. Knowledgeable guides will take guests through the entire production process, including the mash production, whiskey distillation and aging method.

Old Carter Whiskies Gift Guide

Old Carter Whiskies make an excellent gift for whiskey enthusiasts. There are a variety of occasions where Old Carter Whiskies make an appropriate gift, from birthdays to holidays, and even as a thoughtful gesture for business partners or clients. With their unique flavor profiles, there is sure to be a whiskey that suits every palate.

The Old Carter American Whiskey Batch 7 or Old Carter Straight Rye Batch 5 are great for those on a budget.

For a special occasion, the Old Carter Kentucky Straight Bourbon Batch 4 or Old Carter American Whiskey Batch 6 are sure to impress.

Regardless of the occasion or budget, giving the gift of Old Carter Whiskies is a sure way to show appreciation and share the love of great American whiskey.

Old Carter Whiskies Cocktails: Perfect Recipes for Whiskey Lovers

Old Carter Whiskies are known for their smooth and complex flavor profile, making them an excellent choice for cocktails. 

Whether you are a seasoned whiskey aficionado or a casual drinker, these cocktails will captivate your palate.

Here are some Old Carter Whiskies cocktail recipes that you can make at home:

Old Fashioned Recipe

 

The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has existed since the 1800s. It is a refined and uncomplicated composition designed to showcase the intricate flavor profile of the whiskey.

 

 

 

Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Old Carter Bourbon Whiskey
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
• Orange twist
• Ice

Directions:

1. In a mixing glass, muddle the sugar and bitters together until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the Old Carter Bourbon Whiskey and stir to combine.
3. Add ice to the glass and stir until chilled.
4. Pour the cocktail through a strainer into a rocks glass filled with ice
5. Garnish the drink with an orange twist.

Whiskey Sour Recipe

 

The Whiskey Sour is a timeless cocktail appropriate for any social occasion. 

 

 

 

 

 

Here's how to make it with Old Carter Bourbon Whiskey:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Old Carter Bourbon Whiskey
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 3/4 oz simple syrup
• Egg white (optional)
• Ice

Directions:

1. In a shaker, combine the Old Carter Bourbon Whiskey, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if using).
2. Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
3. Pour the cocktail through a strainer into a rocks glass filled with ice
4. You can garnish the cocktail with a lemon slice.

Boulevardier Recipe

 

The Boulevardier is a classic cocktail perfect for sipping on a cool evening.

 

 

 

 

 

Here's how to make it with Old Carter Rye Whiskey:

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz Old Carter Rye Whiskey
• 3/4 oz sweet vermouth
• 3/4 oz Campari
• Orange twist
• Ice

Directions:

1. Combine the Old Carter Rye Whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Campari in a mixing glass.
2. Add ice to the glass and stir until chilled.
3. Carefully pour the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice using a strainer.
4. The drink can be garnished with an orange twist

Blood and Sand Recipe

 

The Blood and Sand cocktail combines whiskey, sweet vermouth, and cherry liqueur flavors.

 

 

 

 

Here's how to make it with Old Carter Bourbon Whiskey:

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Old Carter Bourbon Whiskey
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• 1 oz orange juice
• 1 oz cherry liqueur
• Orange twist
• Ice

Directions:

1. Combine the Old Carter Bourbon Whiskey, sweet vermouth, orange juice, and cherry liqueur in a shaker.
2. Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
3. To serve, carefully strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice.
4. Use an orange twist to garnish the drink.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Old Carter Whiskies offer a remarkable selection of premium blended and single-barrel American whiskeys that will satisfy the discerning palate of whiskey enthusiasts.

From the unique flavor profiles of their collection to the limited edition releases, Old Carter 

Whiskies continue to set the bar high in the world of American whiskey.

Whether you want to add to your whiskey collection, gift a special bottle to a friend, or enjoy a distillery tour, Old Carter Whiskies have covered you.

The brand's history, reputation, and innovative production process make them a must-try for anyone who appreciates whiskey-making.

So, head to your nearest authorized retailer or online marketplace and grab a bottle of Old Carter Whiskey to experience unparalleled craftsmanship and quality.

Cheers to a great whiskey experience!